Long-time philosophy scholar Nollaig MacKenzie, associate professor emeritus at York University's Glendon College, has died.
Born in Scotland, MacKenzie immigrated to Canada during childhood where he was raised in Duncan, B.C. He studied at the University of British Columbia, where he earned a BA and continued his study of philosophy at Cornell University, where he earned a PhD.
He joined Glendon College as a professor of philosophy in 1967 during the formative years of York University and one year after the Glendon campus was officially inaugurated.
MacKenzie's work explored logic, social contract theory, utilitarianism and the structural aspects of human thought. His teaching and research centred on evaluating how humans construct logical arguments, detecting flaws in reasoning and examining principles of social justice – specifically drawing from John Rawls's theories. He published and lectured on these topics, making important contributions to the field of philosophy.
His work often intersected with that of his wife, Ann MacKenzie, who also served Glendon as an associate professor of philosophy. The couple collaborated on several projects, specifically for historical research philosophical concepts.
In addition to his scholarship, MacKenzie was deeply rooted in the community and identity of Glendon College. He was also immersed in community life, participating as a member of the Glendon Faculty Soccer Team.
In June 2026, the Ann and Nollaig MacKenzie Award for undergraduate students was formally presented to the York University Senate. The award, established by Glendon graduate Robert Stainton (BA'87, Hon. BA'88) to honour the MacKenzies as his professors and advisors. It will support undergraduate students at Glendon who are in good academic standing and demonstrate financial need.
After retirement, MacKenzie returned to Vancouver Island. He spent those years with family and friends, and learning how to play the piano.
He is survived by his Ann, his wife of 58 years, and his brother Will (Sandra), sister Winnie and sister Fiona Middlemiss (Barry), seven nieces, two nephews, grand nieces and nephews, and great grand nieces and nephews.